Hey @everyone,
I've been pretty quiet here for the past few months – I've been heads-down learning to develop. While there's still plenty more to learn, I feel like I've finally hit a point where I can take our prototype and build it into a proper full-stack application. Read More ---->
KasOS - a complete web-based desktop operating system running entirely in the browser with:
- Full window management system (drag, resize, minimize, maximize)
- 10+ built-in applications (code editor, file explorer, terminal, notes, etc.)
- IndexedDB-based file system (500MB-2GB storage capacity)
- User authentication and 24-hour session persistence
- Advanced error reporting and diagnostics system
- Pure HTML/CSS/JavaScript (no frameworks)
- Browser-native APIs (IndexedDB, WebCrypto)
- Kaspa blockchain integration via kaspa-wasm
- Client-side only (no backend)
I've been working through this with Claude and have identified the following transformation roadmap:
- Decision Point: Node.js + Express vs Python + FastAPI vs Go (leaning toward Node for ecosystem compatibility)
- Migrate from IndexedDB to proper database (PostgreSQL or MongoDB?)
- Implement RESTful API for file operations and user management
- Set up proper authentication with JWT/session tokens
- Deploy backend (considering Railway, Render, or DigitalOcean)
- WebSocket server for live updates (Socket.io vs native WebSocket?)
- Convert Secure Chat from simulated to real messaging
- Implement proper user discovery and presence tracking
- Real-time desktop synchronization across devices
- Proper key exchange protocols for encrypted messaging
- Server-side validation for blockchain operations
- Enhanced wallet security with backend verification
- Implement rate limiting and DDoS protection
- Content delivery optimization
- Database query optimization and indexing
- Caching layer (Redis?)
- Load balancing for multiple concurrent users
- Multi-desktop switching needs improvement
- Window management system requires refinement
- Debug console (Ctrl+Shift+D) needs attention
- Previous messaging implementations were removed due to complexity – need to get it right this time
Before I start building in earnest, I'd love feedback on:
Backend Framework Choice: Node.js feels natural given the existing JavaScript, but would Python/FastAPI offer better performance or security for blockchain operations?
Database Architecture: Should I use PostgreSQL for relational data or MongoDB for flexibility? The file system is currently nested directory structures.
Real-Time Strategy: Socket.io for simplicity vs native WebSocket + custom protocol for control?
Blockchain Backend: Should blockchain operations stay client-side or move to backend with proper validation? Security vs decentralization trade-offs?
Authentication: Migrate to traditional email/password with backend or keep it client-side? Considering adding OAuth2 providers.
Deployment Strategy: Monolithic deployment vs microservices? Container orchestration worth it at this stage?
Frontend Migration: Keep vanilla JS or migrate to React/Vue for better state management as complexity grows?
Once we align on approach, I'm planning to:
- Set up GitHub repository with current prototype
- Create detailed architecture documentation
- Build proof-of-concept for backend API
- Migrate one application (likely File Explorer) as a pilot
- Iterate based on lessons learned
I've been using agentic development workflows for my recent projects. I've noticed my past applications tend to plateau around 85% completion due to knowledge gaps or tooling limitations, but I'm hoping this collaborative approach will help push through those barriers.
Would really appreciate any thoughts, especially from folks who've done similar migrations or have experience with:
- Browser-based app → full-stack transitions
- Blockchain integration best practices
- Real-time messaging systems at scale
- Security considerations for crypto applications
Looking forward to building this together and finally shipping something production-ready!